When is a learning object not an object: A first step towards a theory of learning objects

Mike Sosteric, Susan Hesemeier

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal Articlepeer-review

63 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

For some, "learning objects1 " are the "next big thing" in distance education promising smart learning environments, fantastic economies of scale, and the power to tap into expanding educational markets. While learning objects may be revolutionary in the long term, in the short term, definitional problems and conceptual confusion undermine our ability to understand and critically evaluate the emerging field. This article is an attempt to provide an adequate definition of learning objects by (a) jettisoning useless theoretical links hitherto invoked to theorize learning objects, and (b) reducing the definition of learning objects to the bare essentials. The article closes with suggestions for further research and further refinement of the definition of learning objects.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)120-139
Number of pages20
JournalInternational Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning
Volume3
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct. 2002

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'When is a learning object not an object: A first step towards a theory of learning objects'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this